UAE residents flock to Europe: Schengen visa applications surge by 20%

Recent travel data reveals a significant rise in UAE residents choosing Europe’s Schengen zone countries for their summer vacations.

According to The Visa Services, a visa services provider based in Dubai, Schengen visa applications from UAE residents, increased by 20 per cent year-over-year (YoY) in the second quarter of 2024.

This trend underscores Europe’s enduring appeal, with Schengen countries accounting for 65 per cent of all travel requests processed by The Visa Services, the agency said in its press release. The US follows with 25 per cent, while Asia-Pacific destinations like Singapore, Australia, and China represent 15 per cent.

The increase in visa applications coincides with the peak travel season, influenced by favourable European weather and major events such as EURO 2024 games, the 2024 Paris Olympics, and Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour.

Top nationalities

The Visa Services’ data indicates that Schengen visa requests typically surge during the summer months (June-September) as residents plan vacations in popular European destinations like Spain, Greece, Germany, Italy, France, Portugal, and Switzerland.

“The UAE has a very diverse population, and most nationalities require visas to enter Schengen countries and the US,” said Anastasia Yanchenko, commercial director of The Visa Services.

“Our data shows that the majority of applicants during this period were Russians (35 per cent), followed by Indians (23 per cent), Filipinos (16 per cent), Egyptians (7 per cent), Jordanians (6 per cent), and South Africans. We serve a diverse clientele, including families (58 per cent) and individuals seeking our services for themselves or their families.”

Processing time

While most Schengen visas are processed within 15 calendar or working days, some countries may take up to 45 days.

In 2023, the rejection rate for Schengen visas for UAE residents was 22.44 per cent, with an approval rate of 77.56 per cent.

The duration of Schengen visas is typically around six months but can vary based on several factors, including documentation, previous travel history, employment and salary, current residence, and financial stability.

“In 2023, most visas issued were for single-entry travel only (74 per cent), with some for 3-6 months multiple entry (21 per cent),” Yanchenko noted.

“In 2024, the trend has shifted, with 45 per cent of visas issued for 3-6 months, 30 per cent for durations exceeding a year, and 25 per cent for single-entry travel only. This year, the most popular visa purposes are travel (70 per cent), business (20 per cent), study (7 per cent), and medical (3 per cent).”

The company said it has experienced significant growth, with the number of completed applications tripling last year. This surge aligns with the expansion of outbound tourism, the flourishing trade between GCC countries and other nations, and the well-developed airline networks within the GCC.

If you are intending to travel to any one of the 27 European countries that are part of the Schengen zone, here is what you need to know:

Schengen visa

A Schengen visa allows travellers to move within the Schengen area for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

It offers the convenience of exploring multiple countries without needing separate visas. However, it is a short-stay visa meant for tourism, business, or family visits.

For longer stays, such as for work or study, a different visa or residence permit is required.

Types of Schengen visas

Uniform Schengen visa (USV)

This visa is for short-term stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

It includes two categories:

• Category A: Airport transit visa.
• Category C: Short-term stay visa, with options for single, double, or multiple entries.

Limited Territorial Validity Visa (LTV)

This visa allows travel only within the Schengen country that issued it or specifically mentioned countries. It does not permit transit or entry into other Schengen countries.

National visa

This visa is for those intending to study, work, or live permanently in a Schengen country.

It includes:

• Single-entry: For a specific period and purpose, after which the holder must return to their home country.
• Multi-entry: Allows free travel within the Schengen Area without additional visas.

Entry Requirements for UAE residents

For UAE passport holders

UAE passport holders do not need a visa to travel within the Schengen Area.

However, they must present the following documents at the port of entry:

• A UAE passport with a minimum validity of three months beyond the intended stay.
• Proof of the purpose of the visit.
• Evidence of sufficient financial means to support the stay.
• Other documents as required by specific Schengen countries.

For UAE residents without a UAE passport

Residents in the UAE who do not hold a UAE passport must obtain a Schengen visa.

This applies to:

• UAE passport holders previously denied visa-free entry.
• Foreign residents with a UAE residence permit who are either nationals of countries with visa-free agreements but were denied entry, or nationals of countries without visa-free agreements.

Application requirements

To apply for a short-term Schengen visa, UAE residents need the following documents:

• Application form: Two copies of a fully completed and signed form.
• Valid passport: No older than 10 years and valid for at least 3 months beyond departure from Schengen.
• Two photos: Taken within the last three months according to Schengen standards.
• Proof of UAE residence permit: Valid for at least 3 months after the intended departure.
• Travel flight itinerary: Proof of reserved flights to and from the Schengen Zone.
• Cover letter: Explaining the purpose and details of the visit.
• Proof of accommodation: Hotel booking, rental agreement, or a letter of invitation.
• Proof of financial means: Bank statement, sponsorship letter, or both.
• Travel insurance: Covering the entire stay, with fees starting at $30.

How to apply

1. Identify the Embassy/Consulate: Determine where to apply based on the destination or speak to an agent such as The Visa Services.
2. Schedule an appointment: Arrange a visit to the embassy, consulate, or a visa processing centre as firms such as VFS or BLS are the processing agents for many Schengen countries.
3. Attend the interview: Bring all required documents to the visa appointment.
4. Wait for processing: The processing time can take up to 15 days. After this period, you will receive a response regarding your application.

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